The Friesens Project Specialist Team has grown by six feet! By that we mean we have three new Book Division Project Specialists to introduce you to.
IRENE YABLOCHKO
Irene Yablochko is Friesens’ newest Project Specialist, working with Carrie Guy and Scott Sinnett’s customers. Born in Ukraine, Irene earned her Bachelor of Education in 2021. She began her career as an online teacher for kids and teenagers, later becoming a methodologist, creating study materials for Ukrainian online platforms.
In 2021, Irene moved to Slovakia, where she studied Slovak and English while traveling around Europe. She relocated to Canada 2.5 years ago and joined Friesens in October 2022. Starting as a specialty helper, she quickly advanced onto the back-glue feeder and was pleased to join the CSR team shortly after that.
Outside of work, Irene has many interests and hobbies that include crocheting, and painting. She is also a self-described cat person, hoping to have one of her own in the near future. Her diverse experiences and creative passions make her a welcome addition to the Friesens family.
MIKE LETKEMAN
Mike Letkeman has been an employee-owner at Friesens for an impressive 25 years and has recently taken on the role of Book Division Project Specialist. Throughout his tenure, Mike has gained extensive experience across various departments, including books and packaging.
Born and raised in Altona, Manitoba, Mike graduated from WC Miller Collegiate and has also lived in Winnipeg and Emerson. Mike’s journey at Friesens began in the Prepress department as a Masker, and he has since held roles such as Platemaker, Yearbook Planner, and Packaging Project Specialist at think4D.
Outside of work, Mike enjoys coaching U13 and U15 hockey teams in Altona and the W.C. Miller Aces high school team. He also loves spending time with family and friends, and a relaxing game of golf, remembering a particularly favorite spot at the Greywolf Golf Course in Panorama, BC! Mike looks forward to collaborating with Paul Cibulka on future book printing projects.
DANIELLE ABRAMS
Over the past 24 years, Danielle has been a dedicated member of the Friesens family, starting out with her first role as Admin Support where she quickly became an indispensable part of the team. Her journey continued in the Yearbook division for 22 years followed by two years in Packaging. Now, she is thrilled to join the Book Division team, working alongside Brandie Herrell and Ron Such.
Before moving to Altona and starting her career at Friesens, Danielle was a natural in the world of hospitality holding a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management. In 2000, she made the big move from Brandon, bringing with her a wealth of experience from restaurant and retail management.
Outside of work, Danielle is a family-oriented puzzle enthusiast who loves scrapbooking, reading, and binge-watching Golden Girls marathons. Known for her early and enthusiastic Christmas decorating, she brings a very positive and upbeat spirit to everything she does. Danielle is excited to start this new chapter and looks forward to collaborating with her new team!
